Android Turns 10: See How the Software Has Evolved

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Look at a picture of yourself from 10 years ago and you’ll probably see that your fashion sense used to be a lot different, for better or worse. A lot can change in ten years, a statement that couldn’t be more true than when applied to the design of Android.

Google this week celebrated Android’s tenth birthday by taking a look back at how the software has evolved over the years. Yes, Google’s software has come a long way since Android Cupcake, when the search giant added virtual keyboards, customization options, and easy ways to share.

“The operating system itself has gone through some major transformations, too,” Google said in a blog post. “The G1 ran on Android 1.0—a version so early, we didn’t even name it after a dessert.”

Early on in Android’s development, the software featured a design that was very business-like, with Clip Art-style icons and a Google Search bar that looks like it was copied from the ‘90s internet.

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Truthfully, the design didn’t improve much for several years until Google introduced its Holo design language, which added support for different form factors. The software would be the first step toward the Android market’s more robust library for devices of all shapes and sizes.

When Android Lollipop finally came around, Google’s design language took a significant turn. With the introduction of Material Design, Google offered software that was beautiful and easier to use and navigate. Google describes Material Design as a “visual language that combines the classic principles of good design with the innovation of technology and science.”

Ten years of Android have paved the way for where Google is today. Android 9 Pie is now dominated by navigation gestures, beautiful customization options, and features designed to encourage users to spend less time using their device.